“System of Rice Intensification” of cultivation, in which alternate wetting and drying of rice fields is practised, results in:
- Reduced seed requirement
- Reduced methane production
- Reduced electricity consumption
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2022 Prelims]
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d)
Explanation:
System of Rice Intensification (SRI)
- SRI was first developed in Madagascar during the 1980s and has since been adopted by various countries, including India.
- SRI offers the potential to improve rice productivity, which has been stagnant for some time, while also reducing groundwater usage by 15 to 20%.
- Additionally, by reducing water requirements, the electricity consumption required for irrigation is also decreased.
- SRI allows for equal or greater productivity compared to traditional rice cultivation with fewer external inputs, including less water, seed, and chemicals, which can result in significant cost savings.
